User:Mr. Ibrahem/Infertility

Infertility is the inability of a couple to sexually reproduce by natural means. In humans it is defined as the inability to become pregnant after one year of trying (six months if a women is over 35 years). In this definition trying to get pregnant involves having unprotected sex every 2 to 3 days. The term is also used for those who are unable to stay pregnant.

Male infertility may occur due to a varicocele, insufficient sperm, or poorly mobile sperm. Female infertility may occur due to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), primary ovarian insufficiency, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, and uterus fibroids. Risk factors for infertility include alcohol, smoking, older age, kidney disease, certain medications, sexually transmitted infections, being over or underweight, and toxins such as lead. Diagnosis may include an examination of semen, ovarian ultrasound, and hysterosalpingography. In 25% of cases, no cause is found.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medications, surgery, or assisted conception. Medications may include clomifene to increase ovulation], metformin in those with PCOS, or gonadotrophins. surgical procedures may include repairing blocked fallopian tubes or removal of fibroids. Assisted conception may include intrauterine insemination, in vitro fertilization, or egg or sperm donation. Alternative medicine is not supported by evidence.

Difficulty getting pregnant affects about 10% to 14% of couples. About a third of cases are due to male infertility, a third female infertility, and a third a mixture of both. In 2017 about 30 million males were infertile and 61 million females were infertile globally.